John C. Hoberg

John C. Hoberg November 7, 1948 – July 27, 2026 John C. Hoberg, beloved son of John E. Hoberg and Elizabeth Russell Hoberg, passed away on July 27, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on November 7, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, John lived a life defined by perseverance, leadership, service, and an unwavering dedication to the Deaf community. John was preceded in death by his parents, John E. Hoberg and Elizabeth Russell Hoberg. He is lovingly survived by his sister, Carol Mullis (the late David Mullis); his brothers, Patrick Hoberg, Raymond (Janice) Hoberg, and Edmund Hoberg; and his many cherished nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss him dearly. John's educational journey began at just 2½ years old when he attended St. John School for the Deaf in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He graduated from St. Rita High School for the Deaf in Cincinnati, Ohio, before earning a Certificate in Bookkeeping and Accounting from Freeman Business School in Chicago, Illinois. Remarkably, John completed his education without the benefit of interpreters or note takers, relying instead on his determination, intelligence, and strong work ethic. Throughout his career, John worked for Beckman Instruments and Bretford Corporation, as well as several news agencies. His dedication and professionalism earned the respect of his coworkers, just as his generosity and willingness to help others earned the admiration of his many friends. John devoted much of his life to the Chicago Club for the Deaf (CCD), where he became a respected leader and treasured friend. He coached the women's softball team, supported the men's basketball team, served as President, and held numerous positions on the Board of Directors. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping the Chicago Club for the Deaf purchase its building at Irving Park Road and Pulaski Road. He worked tirelessly to ensure the organization's long-term success and financial stability. In recognition of his decades of service and unwavering loyalty, John was honored with Lifetime Membership status in 2024. His commitment to the Deaf community extended well beyond CCD. John was an active and proud member of the Central Athletic Association of the Deaf (CAAD), the Illinois Association of the Deaf (IAD), the Northwest Deaf Club, the Lincoln Club, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf (FRAT), and St. Francis Borgia Deaf Church. Through these organizations, he built lifelong friendships and devoted countless hours to strengthening the Deaf community. John was also a pioneer within his own family. In his early twenties, he made it his mission to keep his Deaf household connected with the latest technology. He ensured his family had closed-captioning equipment and later introduced the 'Green Machine' and the TTY, which revolutionized telecommunications between Deaf individuals. He became the family's technology expert, helping everyone stay informed about the newest equipment and innovations that improved communication and independence. Known for his warm heart and joyful spirit, John cherished the holiday season and especially loved portraying Santa Claus at the Chicago Club for the Deaf's Children's Christmas parties. Proud of his beautiful white beard, he spent months grooming it each year so he could bring joy and wonder to children and families. To those who attended the annual celebration, John wasn't simply dressed as Santa—he truly became Santa. John also had an infectious enthusiasm for Chicago sports. Whether cheering for the Bears, Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, or Blackhawks, he proudly supported his hometown teams and enjoyed sharing that passion with family and friends. He was also an avid bowler who participated in Deaf bowling leagues for many years. Above all else, John will be remembered as a loyal son, devoted brother, proud uncle, faithful friend, mentor, and tireless advocate for the Deaf community. His kindness, leadership, generosity, and willingness to serve touched countless lives. His legacy lives on through the organizations he strengthened, the people he inspired, and the many lives he enriched. John's life is a testament to resilience, service, and love. He devoted himself to his family, his friends, and the Deaf community, leaving each stronger because of his presence. Though he will be deeply missed, his example of generosity, dedication, and quiet leadership will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: https://deafchurchchicago.weconnect.com/ , https://chicagoclubdeaf.org/ and https://www.thresholds.org/support-thresholds

John C. Hoberg

November 7, 1948 - July 27, 2026